The United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization marks a historic shift, raising concerns about the future of global health and U.S. sovereignty.

Story Highlights

• The U.S. officially withdrew from the WHO on January 22, 2026, under President Trump’s leadership.
• This unprecedented move comes with $278 million in unpaid dues.
• The Trump administration cites WHO’s failure during COVID-19 as a key reason.
• WHO’s response maintains openness to future U.S. engagement.

The Historic Withdrawal

On January 22, 2026, the United States became the first country to officially withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO). This follows a one-year notification period that began with President Trump’s announcement on January 20, 2025, citing alleged failures by the WHO during the COVID-19 pandemic as a primary reason. The decision has sparked significant debate on the impact this will have on global health governance and U.S. sovereignty.

The withdrawal, unprecedented since the WHO’s founding in 1948, also leaves the U.S. with $278 million in unpaid dues. While the Trump administration views the move as a necessary step to eliminate constraints, the WHO and various public health experts express concerns about the potential ramifications on global health collaboration.

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Financial and Diplomatic Implications

The financial implications of the U.S. withdrawal are significant, with the outstanding $278 million in dues creating a legal and diplomatic challenge. The State Department has made it clear that the U.S. will not settle these debts, attributing the decision to the alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic by the WHO. This financial dispute adds another layer of complexity to the already fraught relationship between the U.S. and the WHO.

With the U.S. previously contributing around 20% of the WHO’s operational budget, the withdrawal raises questions about the sustainability of the organization’s programs. The WHO has emphasized its openness to U.S. re-engagement, with the American flag still flying at the organization’s headquarters as a symbol of welcome for future collaboration.

WHO statement on notification of withdrawal of the United Stateshttps://t.co/oKUktAOxJk

— Fermata/Nin (@fermata_nin) January 25, 2026

The Impact on Global Health

The exit from the WHO has raised concerns about the potential loss of critical disease surveillance capabilities, particularly in influenza monitoring and response. Experts warn that the absence of U.S. participation could hinder the effectiveness of flu vaccines and weaken pandemic preparedness. The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has criticized the move as “shortsighted,” highlighting the vital role of global cooperation in protecting citizens from cross-border health threats.

While the Trump administration defends the withdrawal as a step towards regaining national control over health policies, the decision may isolate the U.S. diplomatically. States like California are taking independent steps to maintain international health partnerships, announcing their intention to join the WHO health network in response to the federal decision.

Sources:

U.S. Withdrawal from WHO: What It Means
California to Join WHO Health Network
U.S. Formally Withdraws from WHO, Leaving Debt
WHO Statement on U.S. Withdrawal